In a notable shift away from mRNA vaccines, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has reportedly dismissed the official overseeing the Make America Health Agent (MAHA) program, as detailed by Endpoint News.
Gray Delany, who led HHS’s efforts with MAHA, has been removed from his position, according to the report. Delany has now identified himself as a “former director of MAHA implementation” on social media.
This decision comes amidst growing confusion regarding the Trump administration’s stance on federal mRNA contracts and some apparent discord between the White House and HHS concerning pharmaceutical policy. The report indicates that this situation has prompted Trump advisor Steve Bannon to call for “all-new communications” within HHS.
On August 5th, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the department had been transitioning its mRNA initiatives from the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Bureau, which plays a role in pandemic response. HHS has stated it is shifting focus to other vaccine platforms touted as “evidence-based, ethically grounded solutions,” including whole virus vaccines, with ongoing projects costing nearly $500 million.
Requests for comment from HHS went unanswered.
When discussing the August 6 pivot, President Trump expressed his enthusiasm for a new strategy, reflecting on Operation Warp Speed, the swift effort during his first term to develop a Covid-19 vaccine. This initiative led to two mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer. Trump hinted at a contract meeting scheduled for August 7th.
“Whether you’re a Republican or a Democrat, Operation Warp Speed is one of the most impressive feats in this country. Everything about it—efficiency, distribution—was remarkable. But that was some time ago. We’re looking for alternative solutions to other health challenges,” Trump remarked.
In the initial press release, there was a mention of terminating contracts with Moderna and Texas University Medical Branch for the H5N1 vaccine. An updated version of the release detailed the “restructuring” of that project, noting its joint funding by the Pentagon, which falls outside Kennedy’s purview.
Bannon communicated with the Endpoint on Wednesday, describing the announcement as “not optimal.” He stated, “In the Trump world… it means it’s completely there. They need a complete overhaul in communication. Gray Delaney was the only one who helped connect the dots.”
During a press conference focused on rural health, Kennedy criticized the mRNA vaccine’s effectiveness against upper respiratory infections, noting it “is useless for upper respiratory tract infections.” He elaborated that while mRNA vaccines might have potential in treating conditions like cancer, they pose significant issues in controlling viral evolution and unpredictable bodily effects.
Even though Kennedy has voiced concerns about mRNA technology for infectious diseases, he remains optimistic about its potential applications in cancer treatment.
